- New 890cc V2 engine with 110 hp (81 kW) and 92 Nm
- Monocoque frame with the engine as a structural element
- Fully redesigned chassis with progressive linkage at the rear
- European market launch from April 2026
The second-generation Ducati DesertX was unveiled during the Ducati World Première 2026 on February 25, 2026. According to the manufacturer, the motorcycle was developed from the ground up and is based on the new Ducati V2 engine and a purpose-built monocoque frame. The first generation of the DesertX entered production in 2021 and targeted riders looking for a maxi-enduro with genuine off-road capability through its 21-inch front wheel.
According to Ducati, the development of the second generation drew extensively on experience gained from competitions on demanding terrain, including the Erzbergrodeo, the Rally of Albania, the Transanatolia, and the 1,500 kilometers through the desert at the NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally.
The New 890cc V2 with Variable Intake Valve Timing
At the heart of the new DesertX is the 890cc V2 engine, which Ducati claims is the lightest twin-cylinder with four valves per cylinder in the company’s history. The engine features the IVT (Intake Valve Timing) system, a variable intake valve timing mechanism said to be unique in this segment.
The performance figures: 110 hp (81 kW) at 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 92 Nm (67.9 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm. Compared to its predecessor, the torque curve is said to be fuller. 70 percent of maximum torque is available at just 3,000 rpm, which is intended to provide spontaneous throttle response when accelerating out of corners.
The gear ratios were specifically tailored for the DesertX. The first four gears are shorter to provide sufficient traction and pulling power even over difficult obstacles. The sixth gear, on the other hand, is taller to reduce fuel consumption and improve comfort during fast highway stages.
In terms of service intervals, the DesertX positions itself at the top of the segment with 45,000 kilometers until the first valve clearance check and oil changes every 15,000 kilometers or two years.
Monocoque Frame with Engine as a Structural Element
The monocoque frame uses the engine as a structural element and simultaneously serves as the airbox. This construction is designed to achieve maximum compactness while maintaining high frame rigidity. Thanks to the new airbox position, the air filter is more accessible and easier to remove and clean after off-road rides.
The rear trellis subframe references Ducati’s design heritage and is intended to provide easy access to engine components. The aluminum swingarm was developed specifically for the DesertX.
Chassis with Progressive Linkage and Kayaba Components
One of the key innovations concerns the chassis. The second-generation DesertX features a full-floater rear suspension with progressive linkage. Unlike a suspension without linkage, where force increases linearly across the entire travel, this system offers softer initial response and increasingly more support under higher loads.
The new Kayaba fork with 46mm stanchion tubes features independent hydraulic adjustments on both fork legs and provides 230mm of travel. At the rear, 220mm of travel is available; the Kayaba shock absorber is fully adjustable and features remote spring preload adjustment.
The 21-inch wire-spoke wheels at the front (tubeless) and 18-inch wheels at the rear come standard with Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street tires in 90/90 and 150/70 dimensions. Thanks to triple homologation, alternative tires from the Pirelli Scorpion range can be fitted to optimize off-road or road characteristics according to preference.
Brembo Brakes with New Lever Design
The braking system is supplied by Brembo and includes radially mounted M4.32 monoblock calipers, new 305mm brake discs, dedicated pads, and an axial master cylinder with a newly developed brake lever. The setup is designed to offer better modulation off-road while providing full braking power on the road. The new brake system also allows a high-mounted front fender to be installed without additional mounting hardware.
Ergonomics Designed for Off-Road Use
The riding position was specifically tailored for off-road use: wide handlebars, narrow knee area, and nimble handling. The footpegs were moved rearward, while the seat and handlebars were moved forward, resulting in a less seat-biased position. This is intended to improve both sporty road riding and off-road control.
The new 18-liter polymer fuel tank is narrower and lighter than its predecessor. Protective pads are designed to shield the tank during slow-speed falls off-road. The fuel volume sits low, which lowers the center of gravity and is intended to improve maneuverability.
The side panels feature a textured surface designed to increase grip when standing on the footpegs. The front fender sits higher than on the predecessor model to provide more clearance above the tire for mud build-up when riding in heavy terrain.
The horizontally oriented dashboard with a standard utility bar provides a clear view of the area immediately in front of the motorcycle, which is intended to make it easier to spot obstacles while standing.
The seat height is 880mm. With the optional lowering kit for the seat and suspension, it can be reduced to 840mm.
Electronics with Six Riding Modes and Four ABS Levels
The electronics are based on a 6-axis inertial measurement unit and were specifically tuned for off-road use, according to Ducati. The system measures roll, pitch, and yaw rates in real time and uses this data to control the Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), and Engine Brake Control (EBC). All systems can be adjusted across multiple levels.
Six preconfigured riding modes are available: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, and the two off-road modes Enduro and Rally. Each mode configures the electronic control systems to suit the respective riding situation but can also be individually customized.
The Cornering ABS has four levels. Levels 1 and 2 are designed for off-road use, with Level 1 aimed at experienced riders and Level 2 intended to help less experienced riders get started with typical off-road maneuvers. In the Enduro and Rally riding modes, the ABS can be fully deactivated. Levels 3 and 4 are optimized for road use.
The new 5-inch TFT display in 16:9 format with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels offers three display modes: Road, Road Pro, and Rally. In Rally mode, the display functions as a navigation instrument with an integrated tripmaster. Two USB ports are included as standard. Operation is via a new flower-shaped joystick on the left handlebar switch.
The new Ducati Quick Shift 2.0 operates without external sensors, which is intended to make the system less susceptible to damage from impacts, mud, and dust.
Design: Lower, Slimmer, More Functional
The design of the second generation follows the principle of form follows function. The front sits 20mm lower than its predecessor, giving the appearance a more dynamic look. Air channels in the fairing are designed to improve airflow and increase thermal comfort. The narrower tank with plastic covers underscores the off-road capability.
The rear is technically minimalist in design and leaves the progressive rear suspension visible. It accommodates accessories such as an auxiliary tank, a passenger grab handle, and pannier rack frames.
Ducati Performance Accessories
Ducati offers an extensive range of accessories for the DesertX. A rear auxiliary tank adds 8 liters of fuel capacity and is designed so that in a crash, it acts as the first point of contact to protect critical components. Radiator guards and crash bars complement the protection concept.
For travelers, aluminum panniers with matching carriers are available. Off-road-oriented riders can opt for a frameless soft bag set developed in collaboration with Mosko Moto.
On the electronics side, the Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) for Bluetooth smartphone connectivity and a turn-by-turn navigator are available as accessories. Performance-minded riders may be interested in the road-legal exhaust with titanium lining and carbon end caps, developed in collaboration with Termignoni.
Availability and Color
The new Ducati DesertX will be available at European dealers from April 2026. Sales in the USA begin in May, with Australia and Japan following in June 2026. The DesertX is available in Matt Star White Silk. A restricted version limited to 35 kW (48 hp) is available for A2 license holders.
The wet weight without fuel is 209 kg (461 lbs).
Technical Specifications and Equipment
- Engine: V2, 890cc, four valves per cylinder, variable intake valve timing (IVT)
- Power: 110 hp (81 kW) at 9,000 rpm
- Torque: 92 Nm (67.9 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm
- Weight: 209 kg (461 lbs) wet without fuel
- Fuel capacity: 18 liters (polymer)
- Frame: Monocoque with engine as a structural element
- Subframe: Trellis
- Swingarm: Aluminum, double-sided, with progressive linkage
- Fork: Kayaba USD, 46mm, fully adjustable, independent adjustments on both legs, 230mm travel
- Shock absorber: Kayaba, fully adjustable, remote spring preload adjustment, 220mm travel
- Wheels: Wire-spoke, tubeless, 21-inch front / 18-inch rear
- Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street, 90/90 front, 150/70 rear
- Front brake: Brembo M4.32 monoblock radial calipers, dual 305mm discs
- Electronics: 6-axis inertial measurement unit (6D IMU), Cornering ABS (4 levels, deactivatable), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Quick Shift 2.0
- Riding modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, Rally
- Display: 5-inch TFT, 16:9, 800 x 480 pixels, three display modes (Road, Road Pro, Rally)
- Lighting: Full LED with daytime running light and dynamic turn signals (where homologated)
- Seat height: 880mm (840mm with lowering kit)
- Service intervals: Valve clearance check every 45,000 km, oil change every 15,000 km or 2 years
- Connectivity: Prepared for Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), turn-by-turn navigation, cruise control
- Additional equipment: Ducati Brake Light EVO, flower-shaped joystick, 2 USB ports, utility bar
- A2 version: 35 kW (48 hp) available
- Color: Matt Star White Silk
- Market launch: April 2026 (Europe), May 2026 (USA), June 2026 (Australia, Japan)
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